Goa is a foodie’s paradise with a ton of options to be explored. As the clock ticks towards the dusk hour, the State reveals a different side. As the light gradually fades and the skies take on a different hue, Goa transitions with a sweet waft that fills its air.
Like their siesta, Goans love their teatime, making a much cherished ritual of it. In fact ‘Chaiyek kitem asa’ (What’s there for tea?) is quite a common phrase you hear in homes or even neighbours asking each other across their balcaos.
Simply unwinding after a long day and spending quality time with loved ones, many sip on their futi chao (black tea) and along with it, there’s always an array of items to munch on.
So, be prepared to get tempted as you discover some of Goa’s sweet treats that are the perfect companions for your next cup of tea.
1. ALLE BELLE
Alle belle are soft, melt-in-the-mouth Goan-style pancakes. You usually find mums whipping up the batter that’s a simple mix of maida, eggs, salt and water during the early evening.
As kids line up for their turn, each crepe is filled with a stuffing made of coconut and palm jaggery. Additionally, many add food colour to the batter making these pancakes vibrant, to be enjoyed by all.
2. FILOS
Filos (or filoz) is another snack that’s a favourite among kids. These yummy pancakes, or Goan style banana fritters, are made using local ingredients like jaggery, eggs, maida and ripe bananas.
3. GOAN BAATH
One bite of this moist cake and you are transported to Christmas time. Mostly prepared during the festive season, you’ll find many Goans even enjoying it during tea breaks.
Baked to perfection, this classic Goan cake is made with coconut and semolina and usually doesn’t need any frosting. It’s simply yum!
4. SWEET POTATO AND CHUNN
Most Goans will agree that when it comes to a match made in heaven, grated coconut and palm jaggery holds the top spot on the list. And, when this combo is added to anything you are definitely up for a treat.
When in season, Goans boil and slice sweet potatoes and add a mixture of freshly grated coconut and palm jaggery to it, to make an easy, nutritious and an excellent teatime snack.
5. DOCE BHAJI
A traditional Goan sweet, doce bhaji is another item relished during teatime. Preparing this delicious item always comes with planning ahead i.e. remembering to soak broken wheat in advance.
Apart from the pre-step, the dish is fairly simple to prepare with other ingredients easily found in any Goan kitchen. Some mistake it for sheera, but doce bhaji differs in texture and flavour.
6. SHEERA
Well, sheera may sound familiar to many. Yet, visit any house or restaurant in Goa and you’ll find many having their own method and uniquely flavoured sheera.
The simple, yet delicious, sweet is made from semolina, ghee and sugar, but Goans add their own tweaks to it, be it different food colours or a ton of dry fruits. However, its rich and flavourful taste is never compromised on and is one of the teatime favourites among locals.
So, the next time you’re holding a steaming cup of tea and looking for a sweet accompaniment, don’t forget to indulge on some of these sweet bites.